HARRISBURG, PA: Harrisburg University of Science and Technology has announced Diane Tokarsky as the recipient of the 2024 Impact Award. The Impact Award is the highest honor given by Harrisburg University, honoring individuals who have made invaluable contributions to Harrisburg University and its mission of community building and economic development.
Harrisburg University honors Diane Tokarsky because of community building, diversity support, and economic development efforts that go above and beyond. Diane’s gifts of time and expertise exemplify the generosity and compassion that make our community stronger and better, and they perfectly match the University’s intention to lead the resurgence of Harrisburg as a place of cultural and technological excellence as well as inclusion, diversity, and equity.
Diane Tokarsky studied law at Dickinson College and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Today, she is considered one of the top construction litigation lawyers in Pennsylvania. During her time as an attorney with McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC, Tokarsky has been repeatedly recognized for her talents in Best Lawyers in America® (2006 to present) and Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® (2010 to present). Diane has further been recognized for her commitment to the community by receiving Top 50 Women in Business, Tribute to Women of Influence, and Tribute to Women of Excellence awards. Her community involvement has included board and leadership positions with YWCA Harrisburg, the Army Heritage Foundation, and the United Way of the Capital Region. Diane’s efforts to increase diverse business participation in construction projects by conducting multi-week training programs are lauded.
Tokarsky’s commitment to Harrisburg University and its founding mission has spanned almost two decades. Her time and generosity honor the legacy of the Impact Award and have helped grow Harrisburg University from a collection of ideas and ideals into what is now a world-class STEM university.
To mark the occasion, Eric D. Darr, PhD, President of Harrisburg University, said, “Diane exemplifies unparalleled dedication and fierce loyalty in her unwavering advocacy for Harrisburg University. Her tireless efforts resonate as a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path towards excellence.”
Diane’s personal and professional support have positively impacted dozens of student scholarships. Moreover, her support for past Annual Galas has resulted in a robust Emerging Scholars’ fund. This fund assists the most financially disadvantaged Harrisburg University students by providing aid for necessities beyond tuition, including clothing, food, and housing. The university is committed to ensuring no student must choose between obtaining an education and meeting their basic needs. The Emerging Scholars Fund and the Annual Gala exist to support that commitment to access and equity, and both exist thanks to the generosity of individuals and organizations in the community.
Mark Singel, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Harrisburg University, was also quick to congratulate the nominee: “Diane’s steadfast commitment echoes the core values of our institution, elevating Harrisburg University to new heights. In gratitude for her exceptional contributions, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Diane Tokarsky, a true champion of our university’s vision and success.”
The Impact Award will be presented at the Harrisburg University Annual Gala on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Hilton Harrisburg. The Annual Gala is the university’s premier event that celebrates both students and the growth of the University. The event gathers an often-sold-out crowd of over 300 Harrisburg University students, staff members, alumni, and community supporters. Attendees can anticipate a night of celebration for the efforts and individuals who helped advance the university’s missions and community standing in the previous year.
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MEDIA CONTACT
To learn how you or your organization can support Harrisburg University and its Emerging Scholars Assistance Fund, please contact Ryan Riley, Vice President for Advancement, at RTRiley@HarrisburgU.edu or at 717-901-5140.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in the fields of science, technology, and mathematics. For additional information about the University’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717-901-5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
